Cheyenne, Wyoming – Whiteout conditions and wind gusts up to 65 mph could turn travel and backcountry recreation life-threatening in the Sierra Madre Range through early Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Cheyenne, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 5 a.m. MST Thursday for the Sierra Madre Range. After a brief lull overnight, heavy snow is expected to redevelop around sunrise Wednesday, with total accumulations reaching 1 to 3 feet by Thursday morning. Blowing snow will frequently reduce visibility below a quarter mile.
The strongest winds along exposed ridgelines could create near-blizzard conditions, especially in higher elevations west of Encampment. Backcountry trails and snowmobile routes may become impossible to navigate as drifting snow obscures landmarks.
Officials warn that hikers and snowmobilers could quickly become disoriented. Frostbite and hypothermia may develop rapidly in these conditions. Anyone traveling should carry extra food, water and a flashlight, and check Wyoming 511 for updated road conditions before departure.
Snow and strong winds will gradually taper before daybreak Thursday, but dangerous conditions will persist in the high country until the storm exits.
